NEWS: Over 56,000 people in Karnataka are living with HIV without knowing their status. Health experts say dating apps are making HIV contact tracing more difficult due to anonymous interactions.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Karnataka has 46 lakh people estimated to be living with HIV.
- Around 56,000 remain undiagnosed and are not linked to treatment.
- HIV diagnosis and treatment linkage are critical public health priorities.
- The rise of anonymous digital platforms has made identifying and notifying partners more challenging.
KARNATAKA HIV FACT SHEET (2025)
- People living with HIV: 5.46 lakh
- Annual new HIV infections: ~22,700
- HIV prevalence: 25%
- People aware of their HIV status: ~90%
- Undiagnosed cases: ~56,000
- People receiving ART: ~4.11 lakh
- Viral suppression among those on ART: ~94%
- New HIV-positive mothers: ~1,312
- Children living with HIV (0–14 years): ~12,367
CHALLENGES
- Anonymous dating apps hinder partner notification and contact tracing.
- Stigma and fear discourage voluntary HIV testing.
- Undiagnosed individuals may unknowingly transmit the infection.
WAY FORWARD
- Expand voluntary HIV testing and awareness campaigns.
- Strengthen confidential partner notification mechanisms.
- Promote early diagnosis and timely Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).
- Increase digital outreach while ensuring privacy and confidentiality.